Episodios

  • Navigating Life's Challenges: Angela Adroni on Family, Military Service, and Personal Growth

    Navigating Life's Challenges: Angela Adroni on Family, Military Service, and Personal Growth
    Nov 27 2025
    In this episode, Joe speaks with Angela Adroni, who shares her remarkable life story that begins in Uganda. Angela reflects on her childhood, highlighting her experiences growing up in a boarding school from a young age and the unique family dynamics she navigated with her parents, who were never married. Angela discusses the balance between city life and countryside adventures, fueled by her hardworking parents, particularly her father's entrepreneurial spirit as a businessman and founder of special needs schools and the Special Olympics. KEY TAKEAWAYS Angela Adroni shares her unique upbringing in Uganda, highlighting the positive aspects of her childhood despite her parents' separation and the challenges of living in a gated community. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive attitude in life, choosing to focus on the positives rather than the negatives, which has shaped her perspective and resilience. Angela's journey to the UK at 19 for university was marked by cultural shock and the challenges of adapting to a new environment, including the financial implications of the currency exchange. Her decision to join the RAF was influenced by the recession and the stability it offered, as well as her interactions with military personnel who spoke positively about their experiences. Throughout her military career, Angela faced significant challenges, including balancing her responsibilities as a single parent and advocating for flexibility in her role, ultimately leading her to complete 12 years of service. BEST MOMENTS "I think it depended. So again, it depends on how you want to see it. For me, I saw it as a positive because then I had two different parents." "I like to look at the positives. And I think choosing the positives has led me to look at life differently." "I think that is the Stuart thing. You're always looking at everything needs to be spotless." "I think it's good to stand up for what's right." "If you're forgetting, please just leave those chains. Don't be chained. Don't stay into the victim thing longer." VALUABLE RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/ HOST BIO Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination. After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families. Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    1 h y 23 m
  • Helen Valentino on ADHD, Abuse, and the Path to Self-Discovery

    Helen Valentino on ADHD, Abuse, and the Path to Self-Discovery
    Nov 20 2025
    In today's episode, Joe engages in a heartfelt conversation with Helen Valentino, who shares her extraordinary journey from a challenging childhood to her experiences in the military. Helen opens up about her upbringing, marked by family trauma and the struggles of growing up with undiagnosed ADHD. She recounts her decision to join the army, driven by a desire to escape her past and pursue a career in nursing. With honesty and honour, Helen reflects on her time in the military, the camaraderie she found, and the challenges she faced, including navigating a male-dominated environment. KEY TAKEAWAYS The individual experienced a difficult upbringing, including living with disabled grandparents and facing abuse from a parent, which significantly impacted their mental health and development. Despite attending an elite private school, they struggled academically due to undiagnosed ADHD, leading to feelings of inadequacy and a belief that they were "stupid" compared to peers. The decision to join the army was influenced by a desire to escape home life and a newfound interest in nursing after working as a care assistant. The military provided a structured environment that ultimately led to personal growth. The experience in the army fostered a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork, especially during intense situations like the Gulf War, highlighting the importance of support among peers in high-pressure environments. After realising that a long-term military career was not suitable, the individual planned to pursue agency nursing and complementary therapies, indicating a desire to explore different avenues in healthcare beyond traditional nursing roles. BEST MOMENTS "I think looking back now, he probably had a lot of anger issues, a lot of unresolved trauma himself, as most of our parents do." "We didn't have Childline. There was no, you know, it was probably maybe another five or 10 years after it happened to me." "I was made to feel like I was stupid at school, really stupid." "I signed up to train as a nurse. I hadn't even contemplated the idea that there might be a war when I was in the army." "One of the things that's really special about the army is the camaraderie with your peers." VALUABLE RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/ HOST BIO Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination. After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families. Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    1 h y 46 m
  • Connecting Veterans with Opportunities in the Civilian World

    Connecting Veterans with Opportunities in the Civilian World
    Nov 13 2025
    In this episode, Joe speaks with Gareth, a former military officer who transitioned from the British Army to the Australian Army and then back to civilian life. Gareth shares his journey from growing up in a military family in Devon to serving in various roles, including a pivotal position as a company commander in Afghanistan. He discusses the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, the importance of networking, and the value of transferable skills gained from military service. KEY TAKEAWAYS Transitioning from military to civilian life can be difficult, as individuals may struggle with the shift in responsibility and decision-making authority. It's important to recognize and navigate these challenges effectively. Building and utilising a strong network is crucial for veterans. Engaging with fellow veterans and leveraging connections can open doors to job opportunities and support during the transition process. Veterans possess valuable skills and a unique mindset that can be highly attractive to employers. It's essential to articulate these skills effectively and demonstrate how they can solve problems within an organisation. Taking initiative and being proactive in seeking opportunities is vital. Whether considering a career change or facing personal challenges, acting decisively can lead to positive outcomes. There is a strong sense of camaraderie among veterans, and many are willing to help one another. Creating supportive communities, like Veterans Can, can inspire and empower veterans to succeed in their post-military lives. BEST MOMENTS "I think that schools for some people are not for everyone. I loved school, but maybe I just wasn't great at sitting down and learning stuff I didn't really think I'd ever need in life." "I always wanted to go to Australia. One night, I Googled, can you transfer to the Australian army from the British army? After a very long, convoluted story, they offered me a place." "I think the ability to build and open up your network is the number one thing. There's nothing more supportive than the military community." "How valuable do you think the skills are and transferable from when you're in the military in Civvy Street to employers or set up a business?" "If you've got an idea, just do it. Time goes too quick. There's never the perfect time to do something." VALUABLE RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/ HOST BIO Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination. After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families. Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    49 m
  • Triumphs, Trials, and the Path to Purpose with Matt Pratten

    Triumphs, Trials, and the Path to Purpose with Matt Pratten
    Nov 6 2025
    In today's episode, Joe interviews Matt Pratten, an Australian veteran with a unique background. Matt shares his journey from growing up in the Sutherland Shire, influenced by his English migrant parents, to navigating the challenges of childhood bullying and finding his identity. He recounts his military aspirations, the culture shock of basic training in the Australian Army, and the pivotal moments that shaped his resilience. KEY TAKEAWAYS Matt Pratton discusses his upbringing as the son of English migrants in Australia, highlighting the challenges of cultural identity and the teasing he faced for his English roots while growing up in Sydney. He shares experiences of being bullied in school and how confronting a bully helped him gain confidence. This resilience was further developed during his military service, where he learned to push through challenges and maintain a positive attitude. Matt describes the intense culture shock he experienced during his initial military training, emphasising the importance of adapting to a new environment and the lessons learned from both successes and failures throughout his military career. His interest in languages, particularly Italian and Arabic, became a significant asset during his military service. Learning Arabic not only helped him communicate effectively during deployment but also opened opportunities for him within his platoon. Matt reflects on his journey from working in retail to joining the full-time army, illustrating the importance of finding a career that aligns with one's passions and strengths, as well as the value of mentorship in navigating career transitions. BEST MOMENTS "Growing up with two parents who grew up in Manchester, in Australia, I'd go to school and everyone would swear I'm English." "I had the ideal sort of childhood upbringing, the sort of childhood that every parent wants to give their kid." "I think probably one regret I have about childhood is I didn't nag my parents enough to get into martial arts earlier." "In times of peace, we train for war. And in times of war, we fight for peace." VALUABLE RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/ HOST BIO Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination. After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families. Joe's charity is currently finalising plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    1 h y 41 m
  • Joe's Comeback Episode - 12 Tips To Dealing with Stress

    Joe's Comeback Episode - 12 Tips To Dealing with Stress
    Oct 30 2025
    Today marks a special day for Joe. In this episode, he discusses the significance of the date, October 30th, and its connection to themes of remembrance and transformation. He outlines his mission to inspire and educate one million entrepreneurs and veterans, alongside insights into his life chart, illustrating key milestones from his military service to his career as a financial advisor. KEY TAKEAWAYS The journey shared emphasizes that regardless of the obstacles faced - be it personal injuries, economic downturns, or life changes - maintaining a positive mindset and the right attitude can lead to success and recovery. Building a supportive network is crucial. Engaging with like-minded individuals through mastermind groups or business networks can provide motivation, accountability, and shared learning experiences. Joe outlines a series of steps to achieve success, including adopting a healthy lifestyle, managing time effectively, and setting realistic goals. A variety of strategies for relieving stress are discussed, such as practicing gratitude, taking regular breaks, and prioritizing sleep. BEST MOMENTS "Whatever happens, whether you go through a divorce, you get injured, something happens, then with the right mindset, the right attitude, you can come through it." "No problem is greater than the solution. And while I'm at it, what someone else thinks of you is none of your business." "Focus your energy on the things that you can control, and accept situations that are not changeable." VALUABLE RESOURCEShttps://www.joeteams.com/ - The unique membership site where you get access to a range of fantastic resources to help you strive, thrive and succeed in life, business and stature. https://JoeTeams.com/tbn - Transformer Business Network. A place where you can regularly meet up with like-minded entrepreneurs and veterans to share tips, increase your contacts and help each other grow https://www.joeteams.com/business-clarity-mastermind – Joining this programme provides you with a simple, unique and effective set of business resources which includes a monthly meeting with other business owners in a safe, secure and helpful environment which is designed to help you achieve your dreams, goals and aspirations. https://www.joeteams.com/TP - Because I became frustrated with all the ‘make this your best year yet’ stuff out there. I created the Pathfinder Ultimate Success Programme which really can change your life. If not, I offer a no quibbles 12 month money back guarantee. https://www.joeteams.com/book – My gift to you for tuning into the podcast is a FREE copy of my Pathfinder book. Enjoy! https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/ HOST BIO Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination. After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families. Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success.
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    1 h
  • Leadership Lessons: Navigating Command and Culture in the British Army

    Leadership Lessons: Navigating Command and Culture in the British Army
    Apr 10 2025
    Joe engages in a compelling conversation with Tim Jones, who shares his journey from a working class childhood in Rotherham to a distinguished military career. Tim reflects on his formative years, the impact of early academic experiences on self-esteem, and the pivotal decision to join the army at 15. He recounts his time at Sandhurst, the challenges of leadership in various postings, and the importance of mentorship within the military. As they discuss the realities of military life, including the pressures of under-resourcing and the cultural shifts experienced during transition to civilian life, Tim emphasises the significance of adaptability and learning from failure. The episode offers valuable insights into the complexities of military service and the journey of reintegration into civilian society, highlighting the importance of support systems and personal resilience. KEY TAKEAWAYS Impact of Early Experiences: Childhood experiences and formative years significantly shape an individual's self-perception and capabilities. Negative feedback during these years can lead to long-lasting self-doubt and limitations. Military Training and Leadership: The military emphasises the importance of leadership through the motto "serve to lead." Effective leaders prioritise the welfare and development of their team while maintaining discipline and mission focus. Cultural Transition Challenges: Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging, with individuals often feeling disconnected from their previous team-oriented environment. Preparation and a clear career path can ease this transition. Learning from Poor Leadership: Negative experiences with ineffective leaders can provide valuable lessons on what not to do, shaping future leadership styles and approaches to team management. Importance of Team Morale: High morale is crucial for operational success. Engaging team members in meaningful work and fostering a sense of purpose can lead to improved performance and cohesion, even in challenging circumstances. BEST MOMENTS "I was just a normal school kid growing up in Rotherham... but I was one of those standard kids that got told to eat your dinner because there are children starving in Africa." "My sister is a lot brighter than me, but she got told by one of the teachers that she was stupid... it really impacted my sister and still does to this day." "I think we've got a very, very rich history, military history, haven't we? From the Navy, the Marines, Army, and subsequently the RAF." "What I find out often is that they could be 40, 50, 60 years old and they're basing their performance ability on what they were told when they were seven." "You know, the old adage of the British military, adapt, improvise, overcome... fail, learn, fail, learn." VALUABLE RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/ HOST BIO Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination. After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families. Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success.
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    1 h y 13 m
  • Building a Future: Marc Poli's Transition from Soldier to Successful Business Owner

    Building a Future: Marc Poli's Transition from Soldier to Successful Business Owner
    Apr 3 2025
    Joe engages in a heartfelt conversation with Marc Poli, who shares his extraordinary journey from a challenging childhood in Leith, Scotland, to a successful career after serving in the military. Marc recounts the trials he faced during his parents' separation, his brief stint in foster care, and the independence he gained at a young age. He reflects on his decision to join the army, motivated by a desire to escape his past and seek camaraderie. Throughout the discussion, Marc candidly addresses the realities of military life, including the challenges of training and the impact of bullying within the ranks. He also highlights the importance of resilience, mentorship, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures in his career, ultimately leading to his current role as a business owner in the recruitment industry. This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance and the significance of community and support in overcoming life's obstacles. KEY TAKEAWAYS Resilience in Adversity: The journey from a challenging childhood, including parental separation and foster care, highlights the importance of resilience. Choosing to live with his father despite difficulties shaped a strong sense of independence. Influence of Family Legacy: A desire to follow in the footsteps of a military grandfather motivated a commitment to join the army, showcasing how family history can inspire personal aspirations and career choices. Overcoming Doubts: Facing skepticism from his father about his ability to succeed in the military, the determination to prove him wrong became a driving force, illustrating how external doubts can fuel personal ambition. Value of Mentorship: The significance of having supportive figures in life is emphasized, as mentors can provide guidance and opportunities that lead to personal and professional growth. Perspective on Failure: Viewing setbacks as learning experiences rather than failures fosters a positive mindset. The belief that "what's meant to be will be" encourages resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges. BEST MOMENTS "I was the only one of 12 grandchildren or so that I actually joined, and none of his sons joined either. So it was a bit of an achievement for me to do that for him." "I don't really see anything as a failure if I'm honest with you, because at the end of the day what's meant to be will be." "Manners cost nothing. Good karma is a positive thing in life, and if you're good with people, people will receptively be good back to you." VALUABLE RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/ HOST BIO Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination. After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families. Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success.
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    55 m
  • From Soldier to Entrepreneur: Michael's Mission to Help Veterans Achieve Homeownership

    From Soldier to Entrepreneur: Michael's Mission to Help Veterans Achieve Homeownership
    Mar 27 2025
    Joe speaks with Michael "Mike" Robertson, who shares his remarkable journey from a challenging childhood in Scotland to a successful military career and beyond. Mike recounts his early experiences in care, his decision to join the Army at 17, and the lessons learned during his training and deployments, including time in Northern Ireland and Iraq. He candidly discusses the impact of his son's autism on his family life and the challenges he faced during his marriage. After leaving the military, Mike navigated personal struggles and ultimately found a new path in the Military Provost Guard Service. Now, alongside his wife Hayley, he runs Property Springs Group, a business dedicated to helping military personnel and veterans secure housing. This episode highlights the importance of resilience, support networks, and the transferable skills gained from military service. KEY TAKEAWAYS Resilience Through Adversity: Michael highlights the importance of resilience in overcoming a challenging childhood and navigating various life obstacles, including family issues and career transitions. Value of Support Networks: A strong support network was crucial for Michael for personal growth and recovery. Having trusted individuals who can provide honest feedback and encouragement can significantly impact one's ability to cope with life's challenges. Transferable Skills from Military to Civilian Life: The skills Michael learnt in the military, such as punctuality, communication, and discipline, are highly transferable to civilian jobs. It's essential to recognise and leverage these skills when transitioning to civilian life. Importance of Planning for Transition: Before leaving the military, it's important to have a clear plan and end goal. Many individuals struggle after leaving due to a lack of direction, so preparing for the transition can lead to better outcomes. Entrepreneurial Ventures: Michael's experience shows that entrepreneurship can be a fulfilling path after military service, allowing for the application of military skills in a new context. BEST MOMENTS "I thought, why me? Why am I not in a loving home, why am I in a care system?" "If I knew now what I didn't know then, I'd have said, let's get a trade." "I was actually excited because I thought, oh yeah, I'm going to join the army." "If you haven't got that, then you're not going to learn and push on." "Before you even decide that I'm getting out, think what have I got to take with me and what can I do with it." VALUABLE RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/ HOST BIO Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination. After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families. Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success.
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    50 m